Swing Arm Operator Support System for Ergonomic Pallet Work
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Solution Overview
Problem
Workers in manufacturing, shipping, and warehousing environments often have to perform tasks on pallets, leading to prolonged periods of awkward postures that increase the risk of accidents and injuries.
Innovation Solution
A swing arm system comprising a ground-engaging support platform, main vertical support brace, rotatable rectangular support bracket, swing arm, and adjustable seat support, allowing operators to position themselves safely and comfortably over pallets without straining into awkward positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If workers perform tasks on pallets without support structures, then task completion is possible, but workers must adopt awkward postures leading to injuries
Solution Approach 1:
The swing arm system acts as an intermediary support structure between the worker and the pallet. It provides a stable platform with seat support that mediates the worker's position, allowing them to work at optimal height without bending or reaching awkwardly, thereby reducing injury risk while maintaining task accessibility
2Ease of operation
If a fixed support structure is provided for workers, then ergonomic support is improved, but the system lacks adaptability to different pallet configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The swing arm system incorporates dynamic elements including a swing arm mechanism that allows angular adjustment, a telescopic arm for length adjustment, and height-adjustable seat support. These dynamic features enable the structure to adapt to different pallet sizes, shapes, and configurations while maintaining ergonomic working conditions
3Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable support system is implemented, then adaptability to different tasks is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is segmented into distinct functional modules: a base structure for stability, a swing arm mechanism for angular positioning, a telescopic arm for reach adjustment, and an adjustable seat support for height customization. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system adaptability without excessive complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A system for providing operator support over a pallet is disclosed. The system includes: an upright support brace, a first pivot member, a rotatable support bracket, a second pivot member, a rotatable arm, a seat support member, and a seat. The upright support brace is connected to one or more primary bearing hubs. The first pivot member is rotatably connected to the upright support brace by the one or more bearing hubs. The rotatable support bracket is connected to first pivot member at a first end and is connected to one or more secondary bearing hubs at a second end. The second pivot member is rotatably connected to the rotatable support bracket by the one or more secondary bearing hubs. The rotatable arm is connected to the second pivot member. The seat support member is operatively connected with the rotatable arm. The seat is operatively connected to the seat support member.